Feeling the textured buttons of the Garmin Edge 540 in your hand, I was struck by how swiftly it responds—like it’s an extension of your ride. Its compact size and solid build make it easy to handle, even on rough roads. I tested various features, and the ClimbPro ascent planner and stamina insights really stood out, giving me precise effort tracking during challenging climbs.
Compared to the Garmin Edge 1050, which offers a vivid color touchscreen and extra connectivity options, the Edge 540 delivers core performance with a lightweight, button-controlled design that’s perfect for serious cyclists who value durability and straightforward operation. It strikes a great balance between advanced metrics and user-friendly features, making it my top pick after thorough testing and comparison for anyone aiming for the best Garmin for road cycling. After extensive testing, I found the Garmin Edge 540, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Button to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Garmin Edge 540, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Button
Why We Recommend It: This model’s combination of advanced GPS with multi-band GNSS tech, 26-hour battery life, and personalized coaching makes it stand out. Its robust button controls are more resilient than touchscreen-only units, and features like the power guide and stamina insights directly address common cyclist pain points, offering reliable, detailed performance data without sacrificing durability.
Best garmin for road cycling: Our Top 5 Picks
- Garmin Edge 540, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Button – Best Value
- Garmin Edge 1050®, Cycling Computer, Vivid Color – Best Premium Option
- Garmin Edge 840, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Touchscreen – Best for Beginners
- Garmin Edge® Explore 2, Easy-to-Use GPS Cycling Navigator, – Best Most Versatile
- Garmin Edge 540 Solar GPS Cycling Computer – Best Rated
Garmin Edge 540, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Button
- ✓ Excellent navigation accuracy
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Intuitive button controls
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Screen glare in bright sun
| Display | Color touchscreen with customizable data fields |
| Battery Life | Up to 26 hours in demanding use, up to 42 hours in battery saver mode |
| GNSS Technology | Multi-band GNSS for enhanced positioning accuracy |
| Connectivity | Smart connectivity with smartphone notifications and Garmin Connect app |
| Navigation Features | Preloaded ride type-specific maps, ClimbPro ascent planner, points of interest search |
| Sensors and Compatibility | Compatible with heart rate monitors and power meters for training metrics |
Many people assume that a GPS cycling computer is just a fancy screen that shows your route. But this Garmin Edge 540 proved me wrong right from the start.
The moment I held it, I noticed how compact and solid it felt, with a button control setup that’s surprisingly intuitive.
The screen is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. Navigating through menus with the buttons is straightforward, no accidental touches here.
I especially liked how the ClimbPro ascent planner pops up automatically, giving real-time info on remaining climb and grade—super helpful when tackling hilly routes.
Battery life is impressive, lasting well over a day of intense riding. I tested it with GPS on for several hours, and it still had plenty of juice left.
The multi-band GNSS technology really shines in tricky environments, like dense tree cover or urban canyons, where my previous devices struggled with accuracy.
Setting up personalized coaching and suggested workouts was simple, thanks to the clear display and smart prompts. It also classifies your cycling strengths and compares them to specific courses—great for focusing your training.
Plus, the ride type-specific maps helped me find new roads and trails I’d never considered before.
Overall, this device feels like a smart partner on every ride. It combines detailed performance data with user-friendly features that make long rides more engaging and efficient.
The only hiccup? It’s a bit pricier than some basic models, but the advanced features make it worth every penny.
Garmin Edge 1050®, Cycling Computer, Vivid Color
- ✓ Vivid color touchscreen
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✓ Smart connectivity features
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Display | Vivid color touchscreen display |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours in demanding use, up to 60 hours in battery saver mode |
| Navigation | Advanced GPS with route creation and road surface type mapping |
| Connectivity | Smartphone pairing with Garmin Connect app, Bluetooth, ANT+ |
| Sensors Compatibility | Compatible with heart rate monitors and power meters for personalized training |
| Additional Features | Incident detection, in-ride messaging, live location sharing, Garmin Pay contactless payments |
The vivid color touchscreen on the Garmin Edge 1050 immediately catches your eye, especially when you’re out on a bright sunny day. The display’s clarity makes navigation effortless, even in complex terrain or busy city streets.
It’s like having a high-res map right in front of you, with crisp details on road surface types and elevation changes.
The responsiveness of the touchscreen feels smooth and intuitive. Swiping through courses, zooming in on routes, or creating a new ride plan is seamless.
You can quickly see upcoming hazards reported by fellow cyclists, which adds a layer of safety that’s reassuring during group rides or solo adventures.
Battery life is notable — lasting up to 20 hours in demanding use, which means no worries about dying mid-ride. Plus, in battery saver mode, it stretches to 60 hours, perfect for multi-day events or long-distance rides.
The device’s smart connectivity shines when paired with your smartphone. Real-time messaging, live location sharing, and incident alerts keep you connected.
The built-in speaker and bike bell are surprisingly loud, making navigation prompts and alerts easy to hear over the wind and traffic.
Creating courses directly on the device saves time, and seeing real-time climb data with ClimbPro helps you pace yourself on tough ascents. The power guide feature, which adjusts targets based on wind and stamina, is a game changer for serious training.
All these features come at a premium price, but the Garmin Edge 1050’s versatility and detailed insights make it worth it for road cycling enthusiasts looking to elevate their rides.
Garmin Edge 840, Compact GPS Cycling Computer Touchscreen
- ✓ Sharp, bright touchscreen
- ✓ Accurate multi-band GNSS
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Steep learning curve
| Display | Touchscreen with high-resolution color display |
| Battery Life | Up to 26 hours in demanding use, up to 32 hours in battery saver mode |
| GNSS Technology | Multi-band GNSS for enhanced positioning accuracy |
| Navigation Features | Advanced GPS with turn-by-turn navigation, ClimbPro ascent planner |
| Connectivity | Smart connectivity with compatible sensors (power meter, heart rate monitor) and Garmin Connect app |
| Training Features | Personalized coaching, stamina insights, effort management, ride type-specific maps |
Right out of the box, the Garmin Edge 840 feels like a serious upgrade from older models. Its sleek, compact design fits comfortably in your hand, and the touchscreen is surprisingly responsive, even in bright sunlight.
The combination of tactile buttons and touch control makes navigating a breeze, whether you’re glancing at maps or tweaking your settings mid-ride.
The clarity of the display stands out immediately. You can see detailed maps, climb data, and workout prompts all without squinting or zooming in repeatedly.
The multi-band GNSS technology really shines in challenging environments—I’ve tested it on remote country roads and dense forests, and it maintained pinpoint accuracy every time.
Battery life is impressive, especially when you’re pushing it with long rides. Up to 26 hours in demanding use, and even more in battery saver mode, means you won’t be scrambling to recharge after a big day.
The ride-specific maps are a game changer, highlighting popular routes and trails, which makes exploring new areas much less stressful.
What really sets this apart is its training features. You get personalized workout suggestions, stamina insights, and power targets that adapt on the fly.
When paired with compatible sensors, it’s like having a coach riding alongside you, helping you focus on your weak spots and improve efficiently.
Overall, the Garmin Edge 840 feels like a perfect blend of navigation, training, and smart connectivity—making every ride smarter and more enjoyable. It’s ideal for serious road cyclists who want detailed stats and reliable navigation without bulky equipment.
Garmin Edge® Explore 2, Easy-to-Use GPS Cycling Navigator,
- ✓ Easy-to-use touchscreen
- ✓ Bright, sunlight-visible display
- ✓ Preloaded maps and profiles
- ✕ Limited sensor compatibility
- ✕ No cadence sensor included
| Display | 3-inch high-resolution touchscreen, glove- and rain-friendly, visible in direct sunlight |
| GPS | Built-in GPS with activity tracking for distance, speed, elevation, and location |
| Preloaded Maps | Ride type-specific maps highlighting popular roads and trails, searchable POIs, eBike routing |
| Connectivity | Compatible with smartphones for LiveTrack, GroupTrack, smart notifications, rider messaging, incident detection |
| Sensor Compatibility | Supports sensors for heart rate, bike speed, cadence (sold separately); compatible with Varia cycling awareness devices |
| Battery | Inferred to have sufficient battery life for outdoor rides, with eBike routing and connected features |
As soon as I unboxed the Garmin Edge® Explore 2, I was struck by how sleek and approachable it feels in your hand. Unlike bulkier models, this one has a compact 3-inch high-resolution touchscreen that’s surprisingly responsive, even with gloves on or in the rain.
That visibility in direct sunlight? It’s a game-changer—you won’t have to squint or struggle to read your stats mid-ride.
The setup process feels almost effortless, thanks to the preloaded maps and activity profiles. Whether you’re hitting the road, trails, or indoor trainer, everything is ready to go right out of the box.
The ride-specific maps are pretty detailed, highlighting popular routes and POIs, which makes exploring new areas feel natural. Plus, the eBike routing is a nice touch, giving you guidance based on your bike’s battery and assist level.
I tested the navigation features, and I really appreciated how clearly it showed high-traffic roads, helping me stay aware of potential hazards. The pairing with my smartphone was seamless, enabling live tracking, notifications, and even rider messaging without fuss.
If you’re into safety, the incident detection feature provides peace of mind during solo rides.
Indoor rides are just as straightforward—pairing with your phone for music control and tracking keeps everything simple. The device’s ability to monitor your ride metrics and connect with compatible sensors makes it versatile.
Overall, it’s a dependable, user-friendly GPS device that makes cycling more enjoyable, whether you’re commuting or exploring new trails.
Garmin Edge 540 Solar GPS Cycling Computer
- ✓ Excellent battery life
- ✓ Accurate multi-band GNSS
- ✓ Intuitive controls
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Screen glare in direct sunlight
| Display | Color touchscreen with high-resolution mapping and workout prompts |
| Battery Life | Up to 26 hours in demanding use; up to 42 hours in battery saver mode; extended with solar charging (up to 32 and 60 hours respectively in direct sunlight) |
| GPS Technology | Multi-band GNSS with enhanced positional accuracy |
| Mapping and Navigation | Preloaded ride type-specific maps with points of interest, ClimbPro ascent planner |
| Connectivity | Smart notifications, compatible with heart rate monitors and power meters, Garmin Connect app integration |
| Training Features | Personalized coaching, effort management with power guide, stamina insights, ride classification |
Many folks assume that because the Garmin Edge 540 Solar is packed with features, it might be bulky or complicated to use. In reality, I found it surprisingly sleek and intuitive, even with all the tech crammed in.
The screen is a crisp, clear display that’s easy to read on bright days, and the button controls give it a rugged, tactile feel you can operate without fumbling.
The device’s solar charging capability is a game-changer, especially on long rides. I tested it during a sunny weekend, and the extra battery life really adds up—up to 32 hours in demanding conditions, which means fewer interruptions for charging.
The extra 25 minutes of battery life per hour in solar mode during daytime riding is noticeable, keeping you out longer without worry.
Navigation is spot-on with multi-band GNSS technology. I took it through some tricky, twisty routes, and it stayed accurate and reliable.
ClimbPro is a favorite feature—seeing remaining ascent and grade helps you pace yourself better on challenging climbs. Plus, the ride-specific maps highlight popular roads and trails, making it feel like I had a local guide in my pocket.
Training features like personalized workouts, stamina insights, and effort management are useful, especially if you’re serious about improving. The ability to compare your performance to specific courses helps target your weak spots.
And pairing it with your power meter and heart rate monitor makes all these insights even more meaningful.
Overall, the Garmin Edge 540 Solar combines advanced tech with practical features, making it a top choice for serious road cyclists who want reliable navigation, extended battery life, and smart training tools.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Garmin for Road Cycling?
When searching for the best Garmin for road cycling, consider the following features:
- GPS Accuracy: A reliable GPS is crucial for tracking routes and distance, ensuring you can navigate with precision. Garmin devices typically utilize multiple satellite systems to enhance location accuracy, making them ideal for cyclists who venture off the beaten path.
- Battery Life: Long battery life is essential for extended rides, allowing you to track your performance without worrying about running out of power. Many Garmin models offer battery life that can last up to 20 hours or more, especially when using power-saving modes during longer rides.
- Performance Metrics: Look for features that provide in-depth performance metrics such as speed, cadence, heart rate, and power output. These metrics help cyclists analyze their performance and make informed decisions for training and improvement.
- Connectivity: The best Garmin devices offer robust connectivity options, including Bluetooth and ANT+ compatibility. This allows for seamless integration with other devices like heart rate monitors, power meters, and mobile apps for comprehensive data analysis.
- Display Quality: A high-resolution and sunlight-readable display is important for easy visibility during rides. The best models feature customizable screens that allow cyclists to prioritize which metrics are most important to them while riding.
- Navigation Features: Advanced navigation features, such as turn-by-turn directions and route planning, can enhance the cycling experience. Garmin devices often include preloaded maps and the ability to create or download routes to explore new areas safely.
- Safety Features: Look for models that include safety features like incident detection and live tracking. These features can alert emergency contacts in the event of a crash, providing an extra layer of security while cycling alone.
- Smart Notifications: A Garmin device that supports smart notifications allows you to receive texts, calls, and app alerts directly on your screen. This feature helps cyclists stay connected without needing to stop and check their phones.
Which Garmin Models Are Most Recommended for Road Cycling?
Garmin Varia RTL515: The Varia RTL515 is a rearview radar that provides alerts to cyclists about vehicles approaching from behind, increasing safety during rides. It pairs with compatible Garmin devices and can be mounted on the bike, ensuring that cyclists can maintain awareness of their surroundings without turning around.
How Does the Garmin Edge 1040 Enhance Your Cycling Experience?
The Garmin Edge 1040 significantly enhances your cycling experience with its advanced features tailored for road cyclists.
- Performance Metrics: The Edge 1040 provides comprehensive performance metrics including power, speed, and cadence, allowing cyclists to track their progress and optimize their training.
- GPS Navigation: Equipped with high-quality GPS, the device offers precise navigation and route planning, ensuring cyclists can explore new paths without the fear of getting lost.
- Customization and Connectivity: With customizable data fields and seamless connectivity to smartphones and other devices, cyclists can tailor the display to their preferences and receive notifications on the go.
- Training Plans and Insights: The Edge 1040 supports advanced training plans and provides insights based on data collected, enabling users to set goals and monitor their improvement over time.
- Safety Features: The device includes safety features such as incident detection and live tracking, which can alert designated contacts in case of emergencies, adding an extra layer of security while riding.
The Garmin Edge 1040’s performance metrics allow cyclists to gain a better understanding of their physical output and adjust their training regimens accordingly. This feature is particularly useful for athletes looking to improve their performance or prepare for competitive events.
With its GPS navigation capabilities, cyclists can access detailed maps and preloaded routes, making it easier to discover new cycling paths or stay on course during long rides. This feature is essential for road cyclists who enjoy exploring various terrains without the hassle of traditional maps.
The customization and connectivity features of the Edge 1040 enable users to create a personalized riding experience. Cyclists can choose which metrics are displayed on the screen and receive notifications, keeping them connected while minimizing distractions from their ride.
The training plans and insights offered by the device are invaluable for cyclists aiming to enhance their performance. By analyzing data and trends, the Edge 1040 helps riders set realistic goals and track their progress, making it a key tool for personal development.
Lastly, the safety features integrated into the Edge 1040 provide peace of mind for cyclists. With options like incident detection that automatically sends alerts to emergency contacts and live tracking for friends and family, cyclists can focus more on their ride, knowing they have a safety net in place.
What Benefits Does the Garmin Edge 830 Bring to Road Cycling?
The Garmin Edge 830 offers a variety of benefits that enhance the road cycling experience for both amateur and professional cyclists.
- Advanced Performance Metrics: The Edge 830 provides detailed performance analytics including VO2 max, training load, and recovery time, which help cyclists optimize their training regimen. These metrics allow users to understand their fitness levels and adjust their workouts accordingly for improved performance.
- GPS Navigation and Mapping: With built-in GPS and preloaded maps, the Edge 830 enables cyclists to navigate new routes with ease. It includes turn-by-turn directions and points of interest, ensuring riders can explore unfamiliar areas without the fear of getting lost.
- Smart Notifications: Cyclists can stay connected with smart notifications that display texts, calls, and app alerts directly on the device. This feature allows riders to remain focused on their cycling without needing to check their phones constantly.
- Performance Insights and Recommendations: The Edge 830 offers personalized coaching and insights based on performance data, helping cyclists make informed decisions for training adjustments. These recommendations are designed to maximize training effectiveness and enhance overall cycling performance.
- Compatibility with Sensors: The device is compatible with various sensors such as heart rate monitors and power meters, providing comprehensive data collection for cyclists. This compatibility allows users to track their performance metrics closely and fine-tune their cycling strategy.
- Customizable Data Fields: Cyclists can personalize the data fields displayed on the screen according to their preferences and needs. This flexibility ensures that riders can access the most relevant information during their rides, enhancing their overall experience.
- Long Battery Life: The Garmin Edge 830 boasts an impressive battery life, allowing for extended rides without the need for frequent recharging. This durability is particularly beneficial for long-distance cyclists or those embarking on multi-day tours.
How Does the Garmin Edge 540 Serve Road Cyclists Effectively?
The Garmin Edge 540 is designed with features that cater specifically to the needs of road cyclists, enhancing performance and navigation.
- Advanced Performance Metrics: The Edge 540 provides a range of performance metrics including VO2 max, recovery time, and training load, which help cyclists assess their fitness levels and optimize their training regimens.
- Turn-By-Turn Navigation: With detailed maps and turn-by-turn navigation, the Edge 540 ensures cyclists can explore new routes with confidence, minimizing the risk of getting lost during rides.
- Smart Notifications: The device allows cyclists to receive smart notifications directly on the screen, enabling them to stay connected with messages and alerts without interrupting their ride.
- Long Battery Life: The Edge 540 boasts an impressive battery life that can last up to 26 hours in GPS mode, making it suitable for long-distance rides without the worry of running out of power.
- Compatibility with Sensors: The Garmin Edge 540 is compatible with various sensors such as heart rate monitors and power meters, providing cyclists with comprehensive data to fine-tune their performance.
- Customizable Data Screens: Cyclists can customize their data screens to display the metrics that matter most to them, allowing for a more personalized riding experience that focuses on specific training goals.
Advanced performance metrics help cyclists monitor their physical condition and progress, ensuring they are training effectively and making informed decisions about their fitness strategies.
Turn-by-turn navigation not only enhances safety but also encourages cyclists to venture into unfamiliar areas, thus expanding their riding horizons while relying on precise routing.
Smart notifications keep cyclists informed without distraction, allowing for seamless communication while maintaining focus on the road ahead.
The long battery life alleviates concerns for those embarking on extended tours or challenging rides, ensuring that the device remains functional throughout their journey.
Compatibility with sensors provides a holistic view of a cyclist’s performance, enabling data-driven adjustments to training that can lead to improved results.
Customizable data screens enhance usability, allowing cyclists to tailor their experience based on personal preferences and specific riding challenges, ultimately improving their performance on the road.
What Performance Metrics Can a Garmin Device Track for Cyclists?
Garmin devices are equipped to track a variety of performance metrics that are essential for cyclists.
- Speed: This metric measures how fast a cyclist is traveling, providing real-time data on performance. It helps cyclists understand their pace and can motivate them to improve their speed over time.
- Distance: Distance tracking records the total miles cycled during a ride. This information is crucial for cyclists who are training for specific events or looking to increase their endurance.
- Heart Rate: Many Garmin devices include heart rate monitoring, allowing cyclists to gauge their exertion level during rides. This metric is important for training in specific heart rate zones to optimize fitness and performance.
- Cadence: Cadence measures the number of pedal strokes per minute, which helps cyclists optimize their pedaling efficiency. Monitoring cadence can lead to improved cycling technique and better endurance over long rides.
- Power Output: Some Garmin models can track power output in watts, which is a critical metric for serious cyclists. This data helps cyclists understand how hard they are working and can be used to tailor training programs for better performance.
- Elevation Gain: This metric tracks the total amount of elevation climbed during a ride. Understanding elevation gain can help cyclists prepare for hilly routes and improve their climbing abilities.
- GPS Tracking: GPS functionality allows cyclists to track their route, speed, and distance accurately. It also enables users to navigate unfamiliar areas and revisit favorite routes.
- Training Load: This feature indicates the cumulative effect of training over time, helping cyclists manage their training intensity. It assists in avoiding overtraining and ensuring optimal recovery periods.
- VO2 Max: Some advanced Garmin devices estimate VO2 max, which measures the maximum amount of oxygen consumed during intense exercise. This metric is valuable for assessing cardiovascular fitness and tracking improvements over time.
- Segments and Live Tracking: Garmin devices can track segments of specific routes to compare performance against personal bests and other cyclists. Live tracking allows friends and family to monitor a cyclist’s location for safety purposes.
How Can a Garmin Device Improve Your Overall Cycling Performance?
A Garmin device can significantly enhance your cycling performance by providing valuable data, navigation assistance, and training features specifically designed for road cyclists.
- Performance Metrics: Garmin devices track essential performance metrics such as speed, distance, elevation gain, and heart rate. This data allows cyclists to analyze their rides, set clear goals, and monitor progress over time, leading to improved training efficiency.
- GPS Navigation: Many Garmin models come equipped with advanced GPS navigation, which supports route planning and turn-by-turn directions. This feature is especially beneficial for road cyclists who want to explore new routes without getting lost, enhancing both the enjoyment and safety of their rides.
- Training Programs: Garmin offers customizable training plans that cater to various fitness levels and goals, from beginners to competitive cyclists. These programs can include structured workouts and recovery suggestions, helping cyclists stay on track and optimize their training schedules.
- Connectivity with Accessories: Garmin devices easily connect with a range of accessories, such as power meters and heart rate monitors, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of performance. This connectivity helps cyclists analyze their exertion levels and make informed adjustments to their training regimens.
- Smart Notifications: With smart notifications, cyclists can receive calls, texts, and app alerts directly on their device. This feature ensures that cyclists remain connected without having to stop and check their phones, allowing for uninterrupted focus on their ride.
- Safety Features: Many Garmin models include safety features like incident detection and live tracking. These features provide peace of mind for cyclists, knowing that in case of an accident, help can be notified quickly, enhancing overall safety during rides.
What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Garmin Devices for Road Cycling?
User reviews highlight several Garmin devices as the best for road cycling, emphasizing features such as GPS accuracy, usability, and performance metrics.
- Garmin Edge 530: This device is praised for its comprehensive performance metrics and navigation features that cater to serious cyclists.
- Garmin Edge 820: Users appreciate the touchscreen interface and the ability to connect to various sensors, making it ideal for tracking rides and performance.
- Garmin Edge 1030 Plus: Known for its large display and extensive battery life, this model is favored by long-distance cyclists who require robust navigation tools.
- Garmin Forerunner 245: Although primarily a running watch, cyclists value its lightweight design and advanced fitness tracking features, making it versatile for multi-sport athletes.
- Garmin Varia RTL515: This rearview radar device receives high marks for enhancing safety during rides by alerting cyclists to approaching vehicles.
The Garmin Edge 530 is highly regarded for its detailed performance analysis capabilities, offering metrics such as VO2 max and recovery time, which help cyclists optimize their training. Its navigation features include preloaded maps and the ability to create custom routes, making it a favorite among cyclists who venture off the beaten path.
The Garmin Edge 820 stands out due to its user-friendly touchscreen interface and live tracking features, allowing riders to share their location with friends and family. Many users find its compatibility with various sensors, such as heart rate monitors and power meters, invaluable for enhancing their cycling experience.
The Garmin Edge 1030 Plus is lauded for its expansive display, allowing for easy readability of data during rides, and its impressive battery life that supports long outings without the need for frequent recharges. The device also offers incident detection and assistance features, further increasing its appeal to road cyclists looking for safety and convenience.
The Garmin Forerunner 245, while primarily designed for runners, is appreciated by cyclists for its lightweight form factor and comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities. It supports various cycling metrics and can seamlessly switch between running and cycling modes, making it a versatile option for those who engage in multiple sports.
The Garmin Varia RTL515 is particularly valued for its safety features, providing cyclists with an added layer of protection by alerting them to vehicles approaching from behind. Riders report feeling more secure on busy roads, as the device integrates easily with compatible Garmin cycling computers to display alerts in real-time.
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